Capt'n John's search for Modern Bridges that will inspire quilters has brought him to China's Zhejiang province and the majestic Ruyi Bridge. Have you ever seen a quilt and wondered, "How'd they do that?" This bridge will have you asking the same question. As is very common with many of today's quilts, it combines the traditional with the modern.

Here is why the Ruyi Bridge in Taizhou, Zhejiang, China will inspire quilters:

"Here is a bridge whose design was inspired by a treasured item. Then movement was added as part of its strength.

The Ruyi Bridge, an architectural masterpiece nestled in the heart of China. The bridge is a bending glass-bottomed structure spanning across a canyon in the Shenxianju scenic zone in Xianju county in east China's. Constructed on May 1, 2019 and designed by the renowned architect Wang Jianguo, the Ruyi Bridge seamlessly blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern engineering principles.

Inspired by the shape of a ruyi, a traditional Chinese ceremonial scepter symbolizing good fortune and prosperity, the bridge's design embodies elegance and grace. The gentle curves of the bridge resemble the delicate petals of a lotus flower, creating a sense of harmony and tranquility for those who traverse it. The unique design of the Ruyi Bridge has captured the imagination of visitors from around the world.

The construction of the Ruyi Bridge was no small feat, with a total cost of ¥1.2 billion ($170 million). Located in the picturesque city of Ruyi, the bridge spans over the serene Li River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The bridge serves as a vital transportation link, connecting the bustling city center with the residential areas on the other side of the river.

Beyond its practical function, the Ruyi Bridge has some fascinating facts that make it a true marvel. The bridge spans an impressive length of 500 meters, making it one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in China. It stands at a height of 120 meters, allowing ships to pass beneath it with ease. The bridge is also equipped with state-of-the-art LED lights, which illuminate the structure at night, transforming it into a dazzling display of colors."

(Cover photo: By Original work: He YunchangDepiction: He Yunchang - http://www.epgroup.cn/, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70294286)

Stay tuned and come back next week to find out the next Modern Bridge that will inspire quilters.

Below are some photos of the Ruyi Bridge, along with the inspiration for it's design, in Taizhou, Zhejiang, China that crosses the Shenxianju Valley.

Below is a "ruyi, a traditional Chinese ceremonial scepter symbolizing good fortune and prosperity" that inspired the shape of the bridge. (Photo from the Beijing Museum)